-Government Says Independent Prosecutors Handled Investigation as Dispute Over Bomi County Equipment Continues
MONROVIA – Liberia’s Ministry of Justice has strongly denied allegations that Attorney General and Minister of Justice Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh Sr. interfered with, delayed, or obstructed the prosecution of a high-profile dispute involving businessman Hans Armstrong and heavy-duty mining equipment located in Sackie Town, Senjeh District, Bomi County.
In a detailed public statement issued this week, the Ministry described allegations circulating on social media and certain media platforms as “false, misleading, and highly unfortunate,” insisting that neither the Attorney General nor any official of the Ministry has attempted to shield suspects or undermine the judicial process.
The Ministry’s response comes amid renewed public debate over the controversial case, which has generated significant attention because of its connection to valuable mining equipment and allegations of unlawful interference with private property rights.
Ministry Pushes Back Against Allegations
According to the Ministry, claims that Minister Tweh stalled justice or prevented criminal indictments are unsupported by the facts and inconsistent with the official record.
“The Ministry categorically and unequivocally rejects any claim that the Honorable Minister of Justice and Attorney General has stalled justice, interfered with the indictment of any person, protected any accused individual, or compromised the prosecution of this matter,” the statement said.
The Ministry argued that court proceedings have already produced favorable outcomes for Armstrong, including judicial recognition of his ownership interests in the disputed equipment.
Officials contend that such rulings undermine allegations that the justice system has denied Armstrong legal remedies.
Presidential Directive Triggered Investigation
The Justice Ministry disclosed that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai issued a formal directive on February 3, 2026, instructing the Ministry to investigate and pursue appropriate action regarding allegations involving the destruction of private property in Bomi County.
Following the President’s intervention, the Ministry said the matter was transferred through established prosecutorial channels.
A Special Prosecution Team headed by Atty. John F. Dexter Puiyoye and Cllr. Isaac B. Williams was subsequently appointed by the County Attorney of Montserrado County to oversee the criminal aspects of the case.
According to the Ministry, the team was granted authority to review evidence, supervise investigations, prepare indictments where warranted, and coordinate with law enforcement agencies and the courts.
The Ministry emphasized that prosecutors were instructed to operate independently and impartially under Liberian law.
Investigators Recognized Armstrong’s Ownership Claims
The Ministry further revealed that the Special Prosecution Team conducted site visits, interviewed relevant individuals, reviewed court records, examined previous proceedings, and compiled an investigative report.
According to the report cited by the Ministry, investigators recognized Hans Armstrong as the rightful owner of the disputed equipment and acknowledged that there had been interference with his ability to take possession of the machinery.
The report also reportedly made recommendations for additional prosecutorial and judicial action.
Justice Ministry officials say these findings demonstrate that the government did not suppress Armstrong’s complaint but instead elevated it for investigation following both his complaint and the President’s directive.
Long-Running Dispute
The dispute involving the mining equipment has attracted considerable public interest because of its implications for property rights, investment protection, and the enforcement of court decisions.
Armstrong has reportedly sought legal intervention on multiple occasions regarding access to and possession of the equipment, while supporters have publicly accused government officials of failing to ensure enforcement of court rulings.
The case has become a subject of debate across social media platforms, where competing narratives have emerged regarding the role of the Ministry of Justice and other state institutions.
The Ministry insists, however, that disagreements over enforcement or compliance with court decisions should be resolved through legal procedures rather than public campaigns.
Ministry Points to Available Legal Remedies
Responding to claims that court orders have not been enforced, the Ministry emphasized that Liberia’s judicial system provides legal avenues for addressing such concerns.
Officials noted that any party who believes a court order has been violated may seek relief through available legal mechanisms, including the filing of a Bill of Information or other remedies recognized under Liberian law.
The Ministry observed that Armstrong is represented by legal counsel and suggested that his attorneys are familiar with the proper procedures for enforcing court decisions or challenging any perceived obstruction.
Warning Against “Social Media Justice”
The Ministry also cautioned against attempts to influence legal proceedings through public pressure campaigns.
According to the statement, prosecutorial decisions must be based on evidence, applicable law, and professional judgment rather than public sentiment or social media commentary.
“The Ministry cannot and will not prosecute any person merely because there is public noise,” the statement said, while emphasizing that it would likewise not refuse prosecution where credible evidence supports criminal action.
Commitment to Rule of Law
Despite rejecting the allegations, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lawful investments, respecting judicial independence, and ensuring accountability for violations of the law.
Officials stressed that no public official is above the law and that the government remains committed to ensuring that all parties—including Hans Armstrong—receive the protection guaranteed under Liberia’s legal system.
As public scrutiny of the case continues, attention is likely to focus on whether the recommendations of the Special Prosecution Team result in further legal action and whether the long-running dispute over the Bomi County mining equipment can be brought to a final resolution.
For now, the Justice Ministry maintains that the record demonstrates active government involvement in the matter rather than obstruction, and it is urging the public to rely on facts established through lawful processes rather than unverified claims circulated online.
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